Elevate Your Fall Cocktail Game with the Fig and Honey Old Fashioned

When it comes to cocktails, the Old Fashioned is a classic that has stood the test of time. It’s simple, elegant, and packs a punch with its robust whiskey base and just a hint of sweetness. But sometimes, even the most timeless drinks need a little twist to keep things interesting. Enter the Fig and Honey Old Fashioned—a sophisticated and slightly sweet take on the traditional cocktail that’s sure to impress.

A Modern Twist on a Classic

The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that dates back to the early 19th century, beloved for its straightforward approach: whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. It’s a drink that doesn’t need much to shine, but when you add fig and honey into the mix, something magical happens. These ingredients introduce a new level of complexity, enhancing the drink’s natural warmth and richness while adding a subtle sweetness that feels luxurious without being overpowering.

Why Fig and Honey?

Figs and honey are a match made in heaven. The earthy sweetness of figs pairs beautifully with the floral notes of honey, creating a flavor profile that is both rich and nuanced. These ingredients not only elevate the drink’s taste but also bring a sense of refinement that transforms the Old Fashioned into something truly special.

Figs have long been associated with luxury and indulgence. Their sweet, jammy flavor and soft texture make them a favorite in both sweet and savory dishes. When used in cocktails, figs add a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and delightful.

Honey, on the other hand, is a versatile sweetener that adds a floral and slightly earthy note to the cocktail. Unlike regular sugar, which simply adds sweetness, honey brings a complex flavor that enhances the other ingredients in the drink. Using honey syrup instead of traditional simple syrup not only complements the fig but also gives the cocktail a rich, velvety texture.

Crafting the Perfect Fig and Honey Old Fashioned

It’s time to craft the Fig and Honey Old Fashioned! This cocktail is simple to make but offers a complex and satisfying drinking experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Fig-Infused Bourbon (or regular bourbon if you prefer)
• 0.5 oz Honey Syrup (see recipe below)
• 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Ice (large cubes work best)
• Fig slice or twist of lemon peel for garnish

For the Honey Syrup:

• 1 part Honey
• 1 part Water

Instructions:

1. Make the Honey Syrup: Combine equal parts honey and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved, then remove from heat and let it cool. Store any leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
2. Prepare Your Glass: Start by placing a large ice cube in a rocks glass. The larger the ice cube, the slower it will melt, keeping your drink chilled without diluting it too quickly.
3. Build the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, combine the fig-infused bourbon, honey syrup, and Angostura bitters. Add a handful of ice and stir until the mixture is well chilled—about 20-30 seconds.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass over the large ice cube.
5. Garnish: Finish your Fig and Honey Old Fashioned with a fig slice or a twist of lemon peel. The fig adds a beautiful visual element, while the lemon peel provides a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the drink’s rich flavors.
6. Enjoy: Take a moment to appreciate the deep amber color of your cocktail before taking your first sip. The fig-infused bourbon, honey syrup, and bitters come together to create a drink that’s smooth, balanced, and slightly sweet—a perfect way to elevate any evening.

The Star Ingredient: Fig-Infused Bourbon

To take this cto the next level, consider using fig-infused bourbon. This step requires a little bit of prep work, but the results are well worth the effort. Infusing bourbon with figs imparts a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the honey syrup and bitters, creating a drink that’s smooth, complex, and incredibly satisfying.

How to Make Fig-Infused Bourbon:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 bottle of your favorite bourbon
  • 5-6 dried figs, chopped
• Instructions:
  1. Add the chopped dried figs to a large mason jar or another airtight container.
  2. Pour the bourbon over the figs, making sure they are fully submerged.
  3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 3-5 days, shaking the jar gently once a day.
  4. After 3-5 days, strain the bourbon through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the figs.
  5. Transfer the infused bourbon back into the bottle or a clean jar, and it’s ready to use!

This fig-infused bourbon will be the star of your Fig and Honey Old Fashioned, adding a unique flavor that elevates the entire cocktail.

The Flavor Profile: What to Expect

The Fig and Honey Old Fashioned offers a beautifully balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and unique. The fig-infused bourbon provides a sweet, fruity base that’s perfectly complemented by the floral notes of the honey syrup. The Angostura bitters add a layer of spice, enhancing the drink’s complexity and making each sip more intriguing than the last.

The drink is smooth and rich, with the sweetness of the honey and fig coming through without being cloying. The bitterness from the bitters and the warmth of the bourbon create a harmonious balance that makes this cocktail incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love the Fig and Honey Old Fashioned

If you’re a fan of the classic Old Fashioned, you’ll love this sophisticated twist. The Fig and Honey Old Fashioned retains the spirit of the original cocktail while introducing new flavors that make it perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something a little more refined.

This iconic fall cocktail is also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening, enjoying as an after-dinner drink, or even serving at a holiday gathering. The fig and honey flavors are warm and comforting, making this drink an excellent choice for fall and winter, but its elegance makes it suitable for any time of year.

Tips for Making the Best Fig and Honey Old Fashioned

• Quality Ingredients Matter: The Fig and Honey Old Fashioned is a simple cocktail, so the quality of your ingredients will make a big difference. Choose a good bourbon, use fresh figs for infusing, and opt for high-quality honey.
• Experiment with Bitters: While Angostura bitters are a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other bitters to see what flavors you enjoy. Orange bitters can add a bright, citrusy note, while chocolate bitters can enhance the drink’s richness.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your cocktails a little less sweet, you can reduce the amount of honey syrup. Start with 0.25 oz and adjust to taste.
• Use Large Ice Cubes: Large ice cubes melt slower, helping to keep your cocktail cold without watering it down. If you don’t have large ice cubes, you can use regular ice, but consider using a few cubes to avoid too much dilution.
• Get Creative with Garnishes: The fig slice or lemon peel are classic garnishes, but you can also experiment with other options. A sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick can add an aromatic touch that enhances the drink’s complexity.

Conclusion Cheers!

The Fig and Honey Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience. This sophisticated twist on a classic drink offers a rich, nuanced flavor that’s perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking for something new to try, this drink is sure to impress.

So why not give it a try? With its elegant combination of fig, honey, and bourbon or whiskey, the Fig and Honey Old Fashioned is a drink that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to sip. Cheers to indulging in the finer things and making every moment a little more special.